mydreamhome, thank you very much for your help. I almost decided on the one in the last thread you mentioned until I went to the store. The tile was only $1.19/SF( while the 13x26 one is $3.99/SF). I doubt the quality might not be good. Its listello's width is 10", not compatible with my current tile's width of 13". The raised pattern above has a width of 8". I personally also like these pattern, which look really nice with marble-looking tiles. But most of them are out of stock now. I'll think about the herringbone pattern one you mentioned, and may buy a tile as a sample to compare to the listellos to see how they are together.

jane: you're outnumbered!! :) And I did not know about the panel ready CDs, but the pics I've seen don't thrill me. I only like the look of panel ready when they are completely built in and you really have to know where they are to find them - and that's not in the budget! deedles - so true on the traffic. And, really, it's me and 2 kids. DH is rarely home when I'm cooking and we entertain, but not a ton. The oven is currently right next to the tiniest aisle and doorway to the DR so there is TONS of traffic there. This would be better for sure. And we currently have no place for people to sit and talk to me - once they have a place at the peninsula, even less likely they'll be milling about in front of my stove. Maybe I'll find a work table that can double as a sideboard...then I can leave it in the DR 90% of the time, but if we are having a party with lots of kids/people we can move it in from of the cooking area for that day.

Curious, I can not tell from these pictures, are the antique tables taller than the piecrust? Is there only one piecrust and when you say drum, those are the first pics round duncan's? I'm so easily confused. Maybe you would like having glass cut to fit atop each table. Another beautiful touch might be glass trays of some type rather than coasters that are sometimes forgotten to use. Plants can also fit on snce plates, bowls or trays to protect. I still like the antique's each side of the fireplace, because I feel the large sofa fills the left side. I think I might like the piecrust next to the entry chair because it is a bit shorter? and the trim base rather than four more legs infront of the chair four legs. In the FR I still like the drum duncan's with the furniture, which you could cover just the top with a waterproof flannel tablecloth, finished with a beautiful fabric of your liking over the protection. Can probably cut two protectors from one vinyl/flannel for penneys until you find something you love. There is no right or wrong, just what make you feel comfy and happy! All your pieces are fabulous, I wouldn't part with any either, but admit, I covet you two antique tables,lol.

Go with the most comfortable but leather will last longer and wear better. Take a look at Omnia or Palliser for similar styles to the microfiber one you like. Omnia is all top grain and Palliser offers all leather or a leather/vinyl option. By the look of your empty room you can go with most anything.